Welcome to High School of America, South Dakota’s leading provider of Homeschooling Online education! South Dakota, known as the “Mount Rushmore State,” is a land of stunning natural beauty, with vast prairies, rolling hills, and the majestic Black Hills. Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, South Dakota offers a rich history, vibrant culture, and a strong sense of community.
At High School of America, we are committed to delivering an exceptional homeschooling experience tailored to the unique needs of each student. Our curriculum is designed to be flexible and customizable, ensuring learners of all ages can thrive in an environment that suits their learning styles.
Our team of experienced and dedicated educators is passionate about helping students reach their full potential. With personalized instruction and support, we empower students to excel academically and develop essential skills for success in the 21st century.
High School of America is committed to making homeschooling accessible and affordable for families nationwide. Our program provides unbeatable value, allowing students to explore new subjects, take advanced classes, and earn a recognized high school diploma accepted by employers, universities, and colleges across the United States.
Join us today and discover the benefits of online homeschooling with South Dakota Homeschooling Online, where educational excellence meets the freedom of personalized learning.
Homeschooling Laws in South Dakota
To homeschool legally in South Dakota, you are required to meet the following requirements:
- Use the DOE’s form to Inform your local school district or the state.
You are required to file a notification form with either your local school district or the Department of Education (DOE) within 30 days of starting your homeschooling journey. The form should include the name, residential district, and date of birth of your child.
The document should contain the following information about your child:
- Their name.
- Date of birth.
- The district where they currently reside.
- The district they are enrolled in if they have chosen to attend a different one.
The form needs to be signed by a parent, guardian, or any person responsible for the child’s care and well-being.
- Notify your local school district or the state about the transition.
If you move to a different school district or enroll your child in a public or nonpublic school, file another standard notification form within thirty (30) days of the transition.
- One individual is not allowed to homeschool over 22 students.
The homeschooling law in South Dakota states that no single person is allowed to homeschool more than 22 learners.
- Educate your student.
Ensure your homeschool program includes instruction in the basic math and language arts skills that would result in the mastery of the English language.
The following are other requirements that you should be aware of when homeschooling in South Dakota:
Required Courses
There are state mandated courses.
Grades 9-12
High school students in South Dakota are required to complete the following course credits:
- Fine arts (1 credit)
- Language arts (4 credits)
- Mathematics (3 credits)
- Science (3 credits)
- Social studies (3 credits)
- Personal finance and economics (1/2 credit)
- Physical education (1/2 credit)
- Health or health integration (1/2 credit)
- Electives (5 ½ credits)
- Any combination of world language, capstone experience or approved career & technical education (1 credit)
Attendance Requirements
Homeschooling families in South Dakota must adhere to attendance requirements similar to those in public schools. The minimum hours of instruction per year are 437 hours for Kindergarten, 875 hours for grades 1-5, and 962 hours for grades 6-12.
Record Keeping
While not mandated by South Dakota homeschool laws, keeping detailed records is strongly recommended. Maintaining records of curriculum, sample assignments, attendance, and other relevant documents can be valuable in situations such as relocation, re-enrollment in a different school, or changes in state regulations.
Annual Assessment
Standardized tests can serve as a tool for assessing a child’s progress, but their use varies across states. South Dakota does not currently require standardized testing for homeschoolers. However, it’s essential to know the testing requirements specific to your state before embarking on your homeschooling journey.
Homeschool Graduation Requirements in South Dakota
South Dakota has lenient homeschool graduation requirements. As the state does not monitor homeschoolers’ high school graduation, parents can establish their own standards and issue their child’s diplomas.
However, if students plan to pursue higher education, aligning their courses with the admission requirements of their desired colleges, universities, or technical schools is advisable.
Transitioning to Public School from Homeschooling
Switching from homeschooling to public school in South Dakota can be smoother if proper records have been maintained and the child has gained proficiency in relevant courses.
Homeschoolers transitioning to public schools can opt for the credit-by-exam program, where students can demonstrate their knowledge and receive transcript credit for subjects they have learned through homeschooling without taking the actual course.
Frequently Asked Questions About Homeschooling in South Dakota
Is homeschooling legal in South Dakota?
Yes, homeschooling is legal in South Dakota. The state recognizes homeschooling as an educational option for children, and parents can educate their children at home.
Is there any oversight or evaluation of homeschooling in South Dakota?
Yes, South Dakota requires some oversight of homeschooling. The local school district superintendent has the authority to request documentation of the subjects taught and the child’s progress. However, there are no mandatory standardized tests or evaluations.
Are there any specific subjects that must be taught in homeschooling?
South Dakota does not have specific requirements for the subjects that must be taught in homeschooling. However, homeschooling is generally expected to cover basic subjects such as math, science, language arts, social studies, and health.
Can homeschooled students receive a high school diploma in South Dakota?
Yes, homeschooled students in South Dakota can receive a high school diploma. The diploma can be issued by the parents or guardians of the student upon completion of the homeschooling program.
Online Homeschooling Statistics in South Dakota
In recent years, the homeschooling community in South Dakota has experienced remarkable growth, with a 25% increase in 2020 and a further 22% increase in 2021. These numbers indicate that approximately 5% of school-aged children in South Dakota are now being homeschooled, which closely aligns with the national average of 6-7%.
Surprisingly, this rise in homeschooling has not resulted in a decline in public school enrollment. In fact, public school enrollment in South Dakota increased by around 1% from 2020 to 2021.
Homeschooling continues to thrive, with the U.S. Census Bureau reporting in 2021 that over 11% of families nationwide have chosen this educational option.
How to Do it: Online Homeschooling in South Dakota
To homeschool online in South Dakota, you can follow these general steps:
- Research State Laws: Familiarize yourself with the homeschooling laws and regulations in South Dakota. Ensure you understand the requirements and any specific guidelines related to online homeschooling. The South Dakota Department of Education website can provide detailed information on homeschooling regulations.
- Notify the School District: Notify your local school district of your intention to homeschool your child. You must submit a letter of intent or complete any required forms as specified by the state or district.
- Choose an Online Homeschooling Program: Research and select an online homeschooling program or curriculum that aligns with your child’s educational goals and your teaching philosophy.
- Establish a Schedule: Set a flexible schedule for your homeschooling activities. Determine the daily or weekly routines, including specific times for lessons, breaks, and extracurricular activities. Consider your child’s learning style, attention span, and other commitments when creating the schedule.
- Set Up a Learning Space: Create a dedicated learning space in your home where your child can focus and engage in online homeschooling. Ensure the area is comfortable, well-equipped with necessary materials, and free from distractions.
- Utilize Online Resources: Take advantage of the online resources you have chosen from the homeschooling program or curriculum. These resources can include lesson plans, instructional videos, interactive exercises, assessments, and more. Use these tools to deliver instruction and engage your child in learning effectively.
- Seek Support and Network: Connect with other homeschooling families in your community or online to share ideas, resources, and support. Join local homeschooling groups or participate in online forums and social media groups to exchange experiences and gain valuable insights.
Benefits of Homeschooling Online in South Dakota
Homeschooling online in South Dakota can offer several benefits for students and their families. Here are some advantages of homeschooling online in South Dakota:
- Personalized Learning: Online homeschooling provides an opportunity for customized learning experiences. Each student can receive individualized attention and tailor their education to their unique strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Online platforms often offer adaptive learning tools that adjust the curriculum to match the student’s skill level, ensuring a more engaging and effective learning experience.
- Customized Curriculum: Homeschooling online in South Dakota allows families to choose or create a curriculum that aligns with their educational goals and values. Parents can select specific subjects, teaching materials, and resources that cater to their child’s interests and learning style. This customization can enhance engagement and promote a love for learning.
- Safe and Secure Environment: Homeschooling online provides students with a safe and secure learning environment. It eliminates concerns related to bullying, peer pressure, and negative social influences that can sometimes be present in traditional school settings. Additionally, parents have more control over their child’s online interactions in an online setting, ensuring a safer digital environment.
- Tailored Support and Attention: Online homeschooling allows for one-on-one instruction, ensuring students receive personalized support and attention. Parents can devote more time to addressing their child’s needs and learning challenges. This tailored support can foster a deeper understanding of the subject matter and help students overcome any difficulties.
- Increased Family Involvement: Homeschooling online in South Dakota promotes increased family involvement in the child’s education. Parents can actively participate in their child’s learning journey and build stronger relationships with them. This involvement can lead to a closer bond between parents and children and provide a supportive and nurturing learning environment.
It is important to note that it requires self-motivation, discipline, and active parental involvement. Before opting for homeschooling, families should carefully consider their child’s learning style, social needs, and the availability of resources and support in their area.
Conclusion
With its decades-long history in South Dakota, homeschooling is just as much of a valid option to pursue your family now as it ever was. Even though homeschooling can be a difficult undertaking for parents, with today’s internet access, many more tools are available than ever for parents who wish to teach their children at home.
By following the laws laid out by the state, you can confidently begin the journey of homeschooling your child. From purchasing curriculum materials and books to finding online course providers that offer accredited programs, South Dakota provides plenty of options for homeschooling.
Take action now — contact High School of America today and get started on this exciting educational journey. After all, you want nothing but the best for your children and their future — why not start with this worthwhile endeavor?